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Bob the Boss.

Margaret Mary Ryan
was born in Bathurst on the 24th of June 1947 to loving and devoted parents Marie and Ted Norris. Growing up with her brother Paul she was surrounded by many extended family members, her Grandmother, Aunts, Uncles and many Cousins. After completing her education, Margaret received her Nursing degree. After nursing in Bathurst, she moved to Sydney where she specialised in midwifery. Margaret cared for many babies over this time, treating each one as if it was her own. Margaret married Terry in 1969 and they moved to Liverpool. By the time their first child was born they had moved and made their home in Penrith.
After having her second child Margaret was diagnosed with Ovarian Cancer. As a trained nurse Margaret worked in local preschools, she loved caring for children. Margaret took pride in herself, her family, her home, her garden and her surroundings. She was actively involved in her local Catholic Churches and schools. Margaret held the positions of President and Treasurer over many years for the schools Mothers Clubs and Parents and Friends Associations. She also managed netball teams and supported dance events. She actively took part in organising community events, delivery of phone books, kids discos, and fetes to raise money to build sporting fields and provide computers in classrooms so that children would have every opportunity to develop physically and mentally.

Margaret was a volunteer for Meals On Wheels and supported many charities so they could continue their good works both locally and globally. Whether it was food or clothing, a friendly ear to listen or a shoulder to cry on, Margaret gave what ever she could. Margaret was supportive of many elderly people in the community. A friendly phone call to check how they were or a surprise parcel of groceries and treats to lift some ones spirits. She loved visiting nursing homes and cheering up the residents with her bright smile, and her love of a good conversation. She always had some fresh flowers, some Darrell Lea chocolates, cakes or lamingtons to share with everyone.

Her Husband and Family were also supportive of her generous nature. She went about this work quietly, and got so much pleasure from helping others. Margaret also instilled this into her children and grandchildren and those who knew her. Help others, treat people as you would like to be treated and give everyone a fair go. It did not matter who you were or where you were from. It did not matter what your race was or what religion or beliefs you held. Margaret treated everyone she came into contact with dignity and respect. She welcomed many people into her family with open arms. She was an honorary Mum and Grandmother to many whose extended family were living overseas. She was always introduced as their Aussie Mum. It gave their families comfort that they always had Margaret for love and support when they themselves were so far away.

Margaret loved to have a good time, any reason for a celebration. A catch up with Family , Friends and Neighbours, soon turned into a party and everyone was invited. She loved to have a good laugh, even if it was at her own expense. Margaret had only one bet every year on the Melbourne Cup. She would have fifty cents each way on every horse in the race. A guaranteed winner. Margaret was a very peaceful lady, she was never rude or pushy. She always put others before herself. She loved giving gifts and making donations. To her it did not matter if this was done anonymously. She made everyone feel so very special. Her loving heart and generous spirit knew no bounds.

Margaret loved the Aussie Flag and what it represented and would proudly sing the National Anthem. Margaret was a Fair Dinkum Aussie and encouraged those around her to be one too. She could not stand by and see someone in need without doing something to help them. She loved Australia, the landscape and the people. With a friendly hello, to Margaret a stranger was just a friend she had not yet met.

Margaret loved everyone and everyone loved Margaret. Margaret passed away on the 31st of October 2012. We are sure she is still doing good deeds and looking after us all from Heaven. We her Family are honoured that Aussie Bob, also thinks that Margaret was a Fair Dinkum Aussie. He has signed her up as the number one member of the Fair Dinkum Aussie Club. Being such a quiet achiever, she would have been very humbled that she is being given this honour.